Toyota Grand Highlander: Price, Specs, Features & Review
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a three-row midsize SUV designed for families who need more usable third-row space and cargo room than the regular Toyota Highlander provides.
It seats up to eight passengers, has up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and is available with gas, hybrid, or high-output Hybrid MAX powertrains. Properly equipped versions can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The main trade-off is price. The Grand Highlander is roomier and more capable than the Highlander, but upper trims can cost as much as premium-brand SUVs.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.7/10
The Toyota Grand Highlander earns an 8.7/10 WheelPedia Rating. It combines one of the most adult-friendly third rows in its class with strong cargo capacity, available hybrid efficiency, and a broad range of powertrains.
It is especially compelling for larger families that need a practical third row without moving to a full-size SUV or minivan.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.9/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and ownership | 8.7/10 | 15% |
| Performance and driving | 8.5/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and practicality | 9.2/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency and fuel economy | 8.7/10 | 15% |
| Features and technology | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Price and value | 8.3/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.7/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full scoring method.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $42,260 MSRP in the US.
- Three rows with seating for up to eight.
- Gas, hybrid, and Hybrid MAX powertrains available.
- Up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded.
- 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row.
- Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped.
- Hybrid returns up to an estimated 37 city / 34 highway mpg.
- Hybrid MAX produces 362 net combined horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Available AWD across the lineup.
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.
- Best for families that need a genuinely useful third row and large cargo area.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Toyota Grand Highlander |
| Vehicle type | Three-row midsize SUV |
| Seating capacity | Up to 8 |
| Powertrains | Gas, hybrid, Hybrid MAX |
| Gas engine output | 265 hp / 310 lb.-ft. |
| Hybrid output | 245 net combined hp |
| Hybrid MAX output | 362 net combined hp / 400 lb.-ft. |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD, depending on trim |
| Best fuel economy | Up to 37 city / 34 highway mpg |
| Cargo behind third row | 20.6 cu. ft. |
| Cargo behind second row | Up to 57.9 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | Up to 97.5 cu. ft. |
| Maximum towing capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs. |
Expert Tip:
The Grand Highlander Hybrid XLE is the best trim for most families. It delivers strong fuel economy, useful three-row space, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and available eight-passenger seating without the large price jump to the Limited or Hybrid MAX models.
About the Toyota Grand Highlander
The Grand Highlander is Toyota’s larger three-row crossover. It has a longer body, a roomier third row, and more cargo space than the regular Highlander.
It is aimed at families who often use every seat. While the Highlander’s third row is best for children and occasional adult use, the Grand Highlander is the better option for carrying adults in all three rows.
The model is also more flexible than many rivals because buyers can choose between a conventional gas engine, a fuel-saving hybrid, or the much quicker Hybrid MAX system.
Price and Trims
Destination, tax, registration, accessories, dealer-installed equipment, and local fees increase the final purchase price.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Powertrain | EPA-Estimated City / Highway MPG | Key Features |
| LE | $42,260 | Gas | 21 / 28 mpg | Eight-passenger seating, three-zone climate control, 18-in. wheels |
| XLE | $45,030 | Gas | 21 / 28 mpg | 12.3-in. touchscreen, available eight-passenger seating |
| Limited | $49,760 | Gas | 21 / 28 mpg | 20-in. wheels, 12.3-in. digital gauge cluster |
| Platinum | $55,445 | Gas | 20 / 26 mpg | Panoramic roof, Panoramic View Monitor |
| Hybrid LE | $45,610 | Hybrid | 36 / 32 mpg | Eight-passenger seating, three-zone climate control |
| Hybrid XLE | $46,780 | Hybrid | 37 / 34 mpg | 12.3-in. touchscreen, available eight-passenger seating |
| Hybrid Limited | $53,110 | Hybrid | 36 / 32 mpg | 20-in. wheels, LED fog lights, power liftgate |
| Hybrid Nightshade | $54,090 | Hybrid AWD | 36 / 32 mpg | Black 20-in. wheels and black exterior details |
| Hybrid MAX Limited | $56,090 | Hybrid MAX AWD | 26 / 27 mpg | 362 hp, 400 lb.-ft., Ultrasuede and leather seating |
| Hybrid MAX Platinum | $60,175 | Hybrid MAX AWD | 26 / 27 mpg | Panoramic roof, premium interior, paddle shifters |
The Hybrid XLE is the strongest all-round choice. It offers excellent fuel economy for a large three-row SUV, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, useful family features, and the option of eight-passenger seating.
The gas XLE is a good alternative for buyers who need higher towing capacity but do not drive enough miles to recover the hybrid’s higher price.
The Hybrid MAX Limited is for buyers who want serious power. Its 362-hp system makes the Grand Highlander much quicker than the standard hybrid, but it uses more fuel and costs substantially more.
Engine, Hybrid System, and Performance
The Grand Highlander offers three distinct powertrain choices.
The standard gas engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. It is the most straightforward choice for towing and can be fitted with AWD.
The regular hybrid system produces 245 net combined horsepower. It is the best option for buyers who prioritize fuel economy, commuting, and long family road trips.
The Hybrid MAX system produces 362 net combined horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. It is the performance choice, with much stronger acceleration and passing power than the standard hybrid.
0–60 MPH Performance
Toyota does not publish a 0–60 mph time for every Grand Highlander configuration.
Independent testing generally places the Hybrid MAX at around the low-six-second range to 60 mph. The gas model is adequately quick for a loaded family SUV, while the standard hybrid is tuned more for efficiency than acceleration.
Driving Experience
The Grand Highlander is designed for comfort, stability, and easy long-distance driving. It is larger than the Highlander, but it remains easier to park and drive than a truck-based full-size SUV.
The hybrid is the smoothest option in normal driving. The gas engine is more useful for towing, while the Hybrid MAX provides the strongest response when merging, passing, or carrying a full load.
The LE and XLE should provide the most comfortable ride because they use 18-inch wheels. Limited, Platinum, Nightshade, and Hybrid MAX trims use 20-inch wheels, which improve appearance but can make rough roads more noticeable.
Fuel Economy
| Powertrain | EPA-Estimated City MPG | EPA-Estimated Highway MPG | Best For |
| Gas FWD / AWD | Up to 21 | Up to 28 | Towing and lower entry price |
| Hybrid LE | 36 | 32 | Value-focused hybrid buyers |
| Hybrid XLE | 37 | 34 | Best fuel economy |
| Hybrid Limited / Nightshade | 36 | 32 | Premium or styling-focused buyers |
| Hybrid MAX | 26 | 27 | Power and performance |
The Hybrid XLE is the efficiency leader with an EPA-estimated 37 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. That is excellent for a three-row SUV with room for up to eight people.
The Hybrid MAX is much quicker, but it gives up about 10 mpg combined compared with the standard hybrid. It makes sense only if stronger performance is worth the extra purchase and fuel cost.
Neither hybrid version needs to be plugged in. The battery charges through the gas engine and regenerative braking.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Grand Highlander’s interior is its biggest advantage. It has more usable third-row room and more cargo capacity than the regular Highlander, making it a better fit for growing families and road trips.
Standard and available features include:
- 8-inch or 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Available wireless phone charging
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- Available heated second-row seats
- Available leather-trimmed seating
- Available second-row captain’s chairs
- Available panoramic moonroof
- Available JBL premium audio
- Available head-up display
- Available Panoramic View Monitor
- Available digital rearview mirror
- Available Traffic Jam Assist capability
- Available hands-free power liftgate
The second row is spacious, and the third row has large windows and enough room for many adults. Buyers who need the greatest passenger flexibility should choose a trim with the available second-row bench seat, which raises capacity to eight.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Practicality Feature | Toyota Grand Highlander |
| Seating | Up to 8 passengers |
| Cargo space behind third row | 20.6 cu. ft. |
| Cargo space behind second row | Up to 57.9 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | Up to 97.5 cu. ft. |
| Second-row seating | Bench or available captain’s chairs |
| Rear seating | 60/40 split-folding second and third rows |
| Maximum towing capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs. |
The Grand Highlander is much more practical than the standard Highlander when all three rows are occupied. Its 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row is enough for grocery bags, backpacks, smaller strollers, and several carry-on bags.
With the third row folded, it becomes a capable family cargo hauler. With both rear rows folded, it can carry large furniture, home-improvement supplies, or substantial travel gear.
Exterior Design
The Grand Highlander has a longer, more upright profile than the Highlander. Its larger proportions give it a more substantial appearance while helping create extra passenger and cargo room.
- LE and XLE: Clean, practical family-SUV design with 18-inch wheels.
- Limited: Adds more upscale trim and 20-inch wheels.
- Platinum: Premium details, panoramic roof, and more advanced parking technology.
- Hybrid Nightshade: Black wheels, black roof rails, black mirror caps, black door handles, and dark exterior trim.
- Hybrid MAX: More aggressive styling and performance-oriented details.
The Hybrid Nightshade is the most distinctive choice for buyers who want a darker appearance without choosing the Hybrid MAX powertrain.
Safety Features and Ratings
Every Grand Highlander includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with standard driver-assistance features such as:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist
- Rearview camera
- Tire Pressure Monitor System
- Multiple airbags
Available features include Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, Panoramic View Monitor, and Traffic Jam Assist capability.
Check the latest IIHS and NHTSA ratings before purchase because crash-test ratings can change by model year, drivetrain, and equipment.
Driver-assistance systems can help support the driver, but they do not replace attentive driving or safe following distances.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The Grand Highlander has a strong ownership case for families who need space but want lower running costs than a traditional V6 or full-size SUV.
The standard hybrid should be the least expensive version to fuel. The gas model is likely the better fit for owners who tow regularly, while the Hybrid MAX will cost more to buy, fuel, and insure.
Because the model is still relatively new, long-term model-specific reliability data is limited. Used buyers should check service history, tire wear, towing use, battery-system operation on hybrid models, and open recalls.
| Coverage | Length |
| Basic warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion perforation warranty | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Hybrid-related component coverage | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Hybrid battery warranty | 10 years / 150,000 miles |
| ToyotaCare scheduled maintenance | 2 years / 25,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 2 years / unlimited miles |
Read our guide on how to check a car’s accident history before purchasing a used Grand Highlander.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Genuinely useful third row
- Up to eight-passenger seating
- Excellent cargo space for a three-row SUV
- Up to 97.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity
- Hybrid returns up to 37 city / 34 highway mpg
- Hybrid MAX offers strong 362-hp performance
- Available AWD across the lineup
- Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity
- Strong standard safety technology
- Available panoramic roof and premium cabin features
- More practical than the regular Highlander for larger families
What We Don’t Like
- Higher starting price than the Highlander
- Hybrid MAX is expensive and much less efficient
- Top trims approach luxury-SUV pricing
- Larger 20-inch wheels may reduce ride comfort
- Gas version is not especially fuel-efficient
- No plug-in hybrid option
- Newer model with limited long-term reliability data
- Some advanced features require upper trims or subscription services
Competitors
Consider these alternatives before choosing a Toyota Grand Highlander:
- Toyota Highlander: better for buyers who need three rows but can accept less third-row and cargo space.
- Toyota Sienna: better for families who want maximum passenger comfort, sliding doors, and easier child-seat access.
- Honda Pilot: worth considering for buyers who want a roomy third row and more rugged styling.
- Kia Telluride: a strong alternative for upscale interior design and family features.
- Hyundai Palisade: worth comparing for comfort, technology, and premium equipment.
- Mazda CX-90: better for buyers who want stronger driving dynamics and a more premium feel.
- Chevrolet Traverse: better for buyers who prioritize maximum cargo room and adult-friendly third-row space.
- Ford Explorer: worth considering for buyers who want broader performance and towing options.
Related WheelPedia Content
Before financing a Grand Highlander, learn how car financing works and consider getting car loan preapproval before visiting a dealer.
If you are deciding whether to buy new or used, compare the benefits of a new car vs. used car and learn how to get the best car loan rate.
Should You Buy the Toyota Grand Highlander?
Buy the Toyota Grand Highlander if you need a large three-row SUV with an adult-friendly third row, meaningful cargo room behind that row, available hybrid efficiency, and a strong tow rating.
Choose the Hybrid XLE if you want the best balance of price, fuel economy, cabin space, and everyday features.
Choose the gas XLE if towing is more important than fuel economy. Choose the Hybrid MAX Limited if you want strong acceleration and premium equipment, but expect higher purchase and fuel costs.
Skip the Grand Highlander if you only use the third row occasionally, need the lowest possible price, or want sliding doors and maximum family practicality from a minivan.
FAQs
How much does the Toyota Grand Highlander cost?
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander starts from $42,260 MSRP in the US. The Hybrid MAX Platinum starts from $60,175 MSRP, before destination, tax, registration, options, and dealer fees.
Does the Toyota Grand Highlander have three rows?
Yes. It has three rows and seats up to eight passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat.
Is the Toyota Grand Highlander larger than the Highlander?
Yes. The Grand Highlander has more third-row space and more cargo capacity than the regular Toyota Highlander.
How much cargo space does the Grand Highlander have?
It has 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, up to 57.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 97.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Is the Toyota Grand Highlander available as a hybrid?
Yes. It is available with a standard hybrid system and the more powerful Hybrid MAX system.
What fuel economy does the Grand Highlander Hybrid get?
The Hybrid XLE returns an EPA-estimated 37 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
How much horsepower does the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX have?
The Hybrid MAX produces 362 net combined horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque.
Can the Toyota Grand Highlander tow a trailer?
Yes. Properly equipped Grand Highlander models can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Does the Grand Highlander have all-wheel drive?
All-wheel drive is available across the lineup. The Hybrid Nightshade and Hybrid MAX models include AWD.
Does the Grand Highlander have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. It includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Which Grand Highlander trim is best?
The Hybrid XLE is the best choice for most buyers because it offers strong fuel economy, useful family space, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a lower price than the Limited and Hybrid MAX trims.
How long is the Grand Highlander Hybrid battery warranty?
The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles in the US.
Final Verdict
The Toyota Grand Highlander is one of the strongest choices for families who need a practical third row and do not want to move to a full-size SUV or minivan.
Its space is the main reason to buy it. The third row is more usable than the Highlander’s, cargo room is substantial, and the available hybrid system makes it far more efficient than many large three-row SUVs.
For most buyers, the Grand Highlander Hybrid XLE is the version to choose. It gives you the model’s best everyday ownership balance: roomy seating, excellent fuel economy, modern technology, and a more reasonable price than the top trims.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy estimates, safety ratings, recalls, and feature availability can change by model year, trim, and market.